Tesla appears to have developed a new self-driving computer, internally labeled “MY Reloaded.” While many were hoping this might be the computer Tesla would offer to HW3/AI3 vehicles as an upgrade, it looks like this new computer will actually serve as a replacement or retrofit for existing HW4/AI4 vehicles.
The new self-driving computer was uncovered by well-known Tesla hacker @greentheonly. Unlike previous AI4 computers, the “Reloaded” version is designated specifically for the Model Y, featuring unique hardware differences that set it apart from earlier iterations.
One of the most significant changes is the presence of a front bumper camera connector. While the new Model Y will come equipped with a front bumper camera, this feature has not been included in the outgoing Model Y, suggesting the new computer may be for the new refresh. However, markings on the unit itself show it is a service replacement part, indicating Tesla will be using this new “Reloaded” version as a retrofit option for existing Model Y cars.
The HW4 Reloaded computer differs from the standard HW4 unit in other ways. Unlike newer Tesla models where the modem is integrated into the Telematics Control Unit (TCU), this “Reloaded” version includes an onboard cell modem. However, despite these upgrades, the unit retains an older USB 3.0 port instead of the more modern USB-C ports found in Tesla’s latest vehicles.
Another key distinction is in its labeling and an update to the Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC). Previously, Model Y FSD computers were labeled simply as “MY,” but this new unit is distinctly marked as “MY Reloaded.” Additionally, it is now the only AI4 computer listed in Tesla’s parts catalog, suggesting that the company may be phasing out earlier versions.
One possible explanation for this change is Tesla’s recent recall of AI4 computers due to hardware and software issues, as we suggested to green on X. The HW4 Reloaded unit could serve as a replacement for faulty AI4 computers while also future-proofing and adding support for a front bumper camera.
However, as we noted at the beginning of this article, the MY Reloaded computer is not a retrofit option for AI3 vehicles. The new unit lacks the necessary connectors to be compatible with AI3-equipped Teslas, and it maintains the form factor of existing AI4 computers which is incompatible with AI3 vehicles, meaning owners of older vehicles hoping for a computer upgrade will still have to wait for a dedicated retrofit, which Tesla has said they will eventually offer if it is found AI3 is unable to run unsupervised FSD.
